Pirate Monk Podcast
A (mostly) weekly podcast produced by members of the Samson Society, a Christian men's fellowship. The show explores themes of faith, brotherhood, and personal growth through candid conversations and storytelling.
Episodes
537 | A New Kind of Accountability | Donggun Kim
Nate and Aaron talk with engineer Donggun Kim about building Swarn. Donggun helps answer how do you help someone change without flooding them with shame or unnecessary detail. He discusses a privacy-conscious content filter that alerts an accountability partner with just enough information to start a real conversation. Aaron and Nate reflect on why this approach matters in recovery, especially for
536 | Why Facts Don’t Heal | Dr.David Pendergrass
On this episode:Nate and Aaron talk about Aaron representing Samson at the AACCC then widen into general discussion about counseling, community, and why some good things can become substitutes for deeper relationships.
They talk to Dr. David Pendergrass. David shares that many men are taught from childhood to suppress vulnerability, which often turns normal emotions into shame instead of healing
535 | Gospel Identity, Shame, and Learning to Be Loved | John Lynch
John Lynch joins Nate and Aaron on the Pirate Monk Podcast to talk about the gospel identity that has shaped his life, ministry, and recovery. The conversation moves from his recent bike trip in Spain to the deeper spiritual work of moving from shame and striving toward being loved by God as you are.They discuss John’s journey from performance-driven religion to grace, the effects of shame, a
534 | Truth on The Inward Parts | Mike Snapp
On this episode: Nate gives info on the Samson Summit. Aaron talks to Michael.
Aaron talks story work with Mike Snapp. Michael shares his history with his dad, step-dad, military, flying planes, porn, affairs, wives, girlfriends, recovery, and helping her heal. Mike shares how Samson Society was a big stepping stone to his recovery, growth, and healing. He talk about his d-day and how helping he
533 | Understanding Generational Trauma | Dr. Marial Buqué
On this episode: Just Aaron and Mariel.
Aaron interviews Dr. Mariel Buqué. Dr. Buqué is a psychologist, trauma-care specialist, creator of the Generational Trauma Therapy Method, podcaster, and author of Break the Cycle: A Guide to Healing Intergenerational Trauma. She explains how family history, biology, nervous-system patterns, and present-day experiences can interact—and how people can begi
532 | Being present with others | Josh Bales
In this episode, Aaron Porter and Josh Bales discuss the importance of authentic community, the role of music and ministry, and the personal growth that comes from shared experiences among men. They explore how vulnerability and presence can transform relationships and spiritual journeys.
Oct 23-25, 2026 U.S. Samson Summit
NEW Samson Community App (Apple store)
NEW Samson Community App (Google S
531 |Recovery Beyond Willpower | Liz Stanley
On this episode: Nate and Aaron reflect on their recent men’s gathering in Birmingham. Men arrived without expectation, and opened up and shared.
Nate and Aaron welcome Elizabeth Stanley for a thoughtful conversation about trauma, nervous system regulation, and emotional resilience. Drawing from her military service, academic research, and personal experience with PTSD and depression, Liz explai
530 | Support for Both Spouses | Therapy Brothers,
Brannon and Tyler Patrick
On this episode: Nate goes straight to the interview because Aaron has the food poisoning.
Nate talks to Brannon and Tyler Patrick. Brannon and Tyler are brothers who are therapists, hosts of a call-in podcast called Therapy Brothers, and lead community retreats to help men become trustworthy. The brothers support both spouses, specializing in sexual addiction and b
529 | Managing Leadership Anxiety | Steve Cuss
On this episode: Nate updates on Allie. Aaron is glad to have a co-host. And they reflect on the importance of a listening ear over preaching.
This week A.I. makes the notes and sucks at punctuation and conversational language. (Also, the normal notes guy gets sassy, see below.) How do you like it? Send feedback to piratemonkpodcast@gmail.com
Steve Cuss joins Nate Larkin and Aaron Porter for a
528 | Bringing Unity in Marriage | Pesa Shayo
On this episode: Nate does promotions. Aaron flies solo.
This week: Aaron has a wonderful conversation with Pesa Shayo. Pesa and his wife Whitney Shayo help couples find unity in the most tested areas of marriage. Pesa shares how both members in a couple can be right and also work together. He discusses how in-laws aren’t the problem, but they find weaknesses and wedge their way in. Pesa gives
527 | The Mind-Body Connection in Healing | Dr Arielle Schwartz
This week: Aaron talks to Dr Arielle Schwartz. Dr Arielle Schwartz is a psychologist’s teacher, author, blogger, and also leads courses and retreats. She shares her story of childhood complex PTSD. Complex PTSD is defined too. Discussing the different types of therapy practices that have helped her and what she uses to help others heal. There is guidance on how to move forward when the abuser is s
526 | The Foundation of Marriage | Casey Caston
The Foundation of Marriage with Casey Caston
This week: Nate and Aaron talk Ireland. Aaron is 50! And, if you’ve read it, share your thoughts on the Silas book here.
Nate and Aaron talk to Casey Caston. Casey talks about how he slept on the couch the night he got married. This began his studies into what makes a healthy marriage. He shares that you don’t need more marriage therapy but processe
525 | Breaking Free from Pornography Addiction | Troy Dircks
In this episode Aaron sails the Pirate Monk ship alone.
Aaron talks to Troy Dircks. Troy is an author who wrote: Elite Mindset: Breaking Free from Pornography Addiction: Rewrite your brain, Reclaim your Life. Troy shares his journey to grow and heal from sexual abuse at six and later pornography addiction. He shares practical steps, the importance of vulnerability, and how small habits can transfo
524 | Recovery Through the Body and Attachment Principles | Nina Pick
This week, Aaron hosts solo.
Aarons talks with Nina Pick. Nina is a somatic healing practitioner and integrative counselor, Neuro Affective Touch practitioner, group facilitator, and author. She shares her story of recovery since 2009. Nina explains how engaging the body accesses a deeper level of healing. She helps us to understand the connection between communication and addiction. Nina also e
523 | A Journey Through Grace and Recovery | Nate Larkin
In this episode, Nate Larkin and Ken Romero explore the themes of vulnerability, grace, and the transformative power of connection through personal stories and biblical insights. Whether you're facing your own struggles or seeking encouragement to connect more deeply with others, this conversation offers hope and practical wisdom.
In addition this episode includes Nate speaking at the Sanctuary C
522 | The Road to Church Through the Therapist Office| | Matthew LaPine
This week, Aaron has been thinking about building others up.
Nate and Aaron talk to Matthew LaPine. Matthew is from Nebraska where he is the director of equipping, a father, husband, podcaster, and author. He teaches how growth happens through the eyes of the gardener versus the programer. Matthew ties together a theological understanding of psychology with biblical and church counseling, and sc
521| Digital Addiction | Jay Kim
Aaron joins us from England. He talks to a couple of Samson guys on a journey.
Nate and Aarons talk to Jay Kim. Jay is not a politician. He is a preacher, podcaster, author, board member, and good at answering questions on the spot. Jay’s story includes overcoming digital addiction. He brainstorms what it would be like today if Jesus had the distractions we have today. Jay gives pointers on how
520 | Growing in Wisdom | Giff Lasta
In this episode Nate and Aaron talk to Giff Lasta. Giff is an author, coach, and founder of Reforged Marriage. He shares the story of his recovery from porn addiction, his 90-day sexual fast, and finding his “frame.” Giff shares the importance of having other men speak into your life, especially in recovery, and not your wife. The guys discuss how to be an @$$hole appropriately and not be a “chris
519 | Discovering God’s Love in All Circumstances | Wayne Jacobsen
In this episode Aaron talks to Wayne Jacobsen. Wayne is an author and speaker. He has written many books, including co-author of The Shack. Today he talks about Love. Wayne compares the similarities of the weight-loss industry and churches. Can you be self-justice like you can be self-righteous? Wayne helps us to see God’s love and engage it in all circumstances. He also talks about grace, justice
518 | The Toxic War on Masculinity | Dr. Nancy Pearcey
In this episode Nate and Aaron talk to professor Nancy Pearcey. Nancy is an author, professor, and scholar. She studies and writes about faith, science, and culture. Her newest book is The Toxic War on Masculinity. She tells her story of abuse and feminism on her journey to Christianity. She shares stats about how church going men have healthier marriages and better dads than those that claim a be
517 | Men Don’t Need Therapy | JIm Cress
On the episode this week: Nate is in his bedroom. Aaron isn’t driving his Prius to England. Nate and Aaron also talk about The Brutal Truth retreat in Jupiter FL.
Nate talks to returning guest and friend Jim Cress. Jim is many kinds of therapists, leads intensives, author, and podcaster. Jim introduces the Samson only retreat he is leading in Oklahoma on August 13-17. He also talks about his ne
516 | Sympathy for Pharisees | Chris Sicks
On the episode this week: Nate talks about a guys stash. Aaron was discovered.
Nate and Aaron talk with guest Chris Sicks. Chris is a pastor at One Voice Fellowship in Virginia, where they translate the sermon into over 18 languages. He is also the founder and president of For the Nations DC, where they teach ESOL to students and their children. Chris shares his journey from believing in beer an
515 | Adult Friendship | Mark Greene
This episode is an encore presentation so you might hear some familiar words however they are still impactful. On the episode: Nate knows the feeling. Aaron mocks a magician and wears two pants.
Nate and Aaron talk with guest Mark Greene. Mark is a Texas native living in Manhattan, NY, who has learned to make friends and is guiding us. He imparts some startling statistics that may motivate you
514 | Core Needs Around Human Connection| Dr. Kelly Flanagan
On the episode this week: Nate and Aaron talk about post Mother's day and grandmas as moms too.
Nate and Aaron talk with guest Dr. Kelly Flanagan. Kelly is a husband, father, speaker, coach, clinical psychologist, and author. Kelly talks about nine ways your heart closes and how to reopen it, and what closing your heart means. What’s the difference between yelling and passionate talking with an
513 | Grace is Exciting | David Zahl
On the episode this week: Nate and Aaron discuss the Silas book, available on the membership part of the app (only $7.95).
Nate and Aaron talk with guest David Zahl. David is a husband, father, author, theologian, pastor, and podcaster. He comes from a family with alcoholism and addiction. David helps debunk myths about grace, like its only for non-believers, if you have more grace you will sin
512 | Hard Times and Transitions | Granger Smith
On the episode this week: Nate is hungry. Aaron steers us back.
Nate and Aaron talk with guest Granger Smith. Granger has a bookshelf with a ladder and throws guitars with his kids. He came from a good home with lots of support and still had bad things happen and made bad choices. Granger shares the loss of his son, his weak faith, and almost ending it all. He shares how he made the decision t
511 | What is a Church and Pastor| Nathan Apffel
On the episode this week: Nate is home and Aaron went to Helen back. They also give some updates on the Samson app and website.
Nate and Aaron talk with guest Nathan Apffel. Nathan (Nate) grew up where faith was a source of both comfort and questioning, raised in a religious community. Nate began “The Religion Business” after over 10 years of investigative work into sacred spiritual, religious,
510 | Making the Room Safe for Women in Recovery | Crystal Renaud Day
On the episode this week: Nate is optimistic and Aaron got a ransom note and may have gotten married.
Nate and Aaron talk to returning guest Crystal Renaud Day. Crystal is an author, counselor, coach, podcaster, and also leads intensives. She went to school for street cred! Crystal discusses the stats of surveying 1300 women who watch porn (including students), the findings are unexpected. She s
509 | Navigating Leadership in Recovery | Todd Eakes
On the episode this week: Aaron wears underwear.
Aaron talks to guest Todd Eakes. Todd is a fellow pirate monk from Colorado. He shares his journey of getting caught with a prostitute, then to celebrate recovery, SLAA 12-step meetings, and Samson Society. Todd shares how he was adopted as an infant, and has been pursuing love, acceptance, and relationships from the wrong places. They talk about
508 | What is Enmeshment ? | Dr. Ken Adams
On the episode this week: Aaron sounds oddly familiar.
Aaron talks to guest Dr. Ken Adams. As the expert, Ken answers the age old question: “what is Enmeshment?”. Do you have challenges with control, identity, long term commitment, working too much, affairs, eating disorders, and more? You aren’t alone, 50% of people have similar challenges in enmeshment. Find out possible reasons why and how to
507 | The Need for Friction and Dangers of AI | Michael Leahy
On the episode this week: Nate and Aaron argue about sportsketball. Aaron plans some OJ trickery. Nate gives Allie updates. And 50 free books, listen until the end.
Nate and Aaron talk to returning guest Michael Leahy. Michael brings his expertise to the topic of AI. By listening to this podcast, you will be one of a small minority that is educated on the good and bad of AI. There have been incr
506 | I know you didn't want to | Cat Etherington
On the episode this week: Nate asks Aaron questions. Aaron reads recipes and annoys people in public.
Nate and Aaron talk to returning guest Cat Etherington. Cat is a podcaster, writer, wife, mom, and works for Naked Truth. Naked Truth is focused on opening eyes and freeing lives from the damaging impacts of porn. NT also facilitates discussion and resources in churches, with christian leaders,
505 | Dad Tired | Jerrad Lopes
On the episode this week: Aaron might be wearing a woman's sweater, and he’s ok with that.
Aaron talks to Jerrad Lopes. Jerrad is former clergy, a podcaster, dad, husband, author, and much more. He likes the weight of a blanket nearly to suffocation. Jerrad talks about his “first crisis” where he was fired from church before an implosion and nearly divorced, and how that set him on the path to
504 | Chaos to Order| Brandon Syler
Chaos to Order with Brandon Syler
On the episode this week: Aaron hosts solo and sounds really really similar to last week.
Aaron talks to Brandon Syler. Brandon is from Charolette where he has a wife, 3 kids, and 12 inches of snow. He shares how he was a “human doing,” going to school, getting good grades, and being a good boy. Brandon talks about how the human doing produced chaos at work, c
503 | Gender Roles and Loving Your Neighbor | Sheila Gregoire
On the episode this week: Aaron hosts solo and speaks of the tongue with his tongue. Aaron also updates on Nates wife’s cancer.
Nate and Aaron talk to Sheila Ray Gregoire. Sheila is a therapist, podcaster, author, researcher, and more. This week we discuss orgasms in church, sex drives, gender roles, and even spicier topics. Sheila also talks about faulty sex teaching in the church. We compare n
502 | Rebuke The Wise and They Will Be Wiser | Ben Bennett
Rebuke The Wise and They Will Be Wiser with Ben Bennett
On the episode this week: Aaron doesn’t feel different. Nate leaves late and feels shades of covid.
Nate and Aaron talk to returning guest Ben Bennett. Ben updates on Resolution ministries and how it continues to grow, helping others find the path to healing and freedom with the Bible and Science. He shares how to prevent burnout. Ben
501| Is This Actually Happening? | Dr. Robb Kelly
On the episode this week: Nate and Aaron offer assistance on planning your own retreats and considering firing up the 48 hours of frankness. Reach out to Aaron here for guidance.
Nate and Aaron talk to Robb Kelly. Robb is a Texan, you can tell from his accent. Robb leads us in box breathing to get started. He shares how he lost everything to drugs and alcohol and died twice. There
500 | 500th Episode | Nate, Aaron, Mark, David
For the 500th episode, Nate and Aaron sit down and talk with two men who were at the first Samson Society meeting in Franklin, went to the first 48 Hours of frankness, and travelled to California for the first large Samson event at the church where Aaron was a pastor. This episode makes everyone feel...old.
499 | Desire | Jay Stringer
On the episode this week: Nate and Aaron update on the video portion of the podcast. And Aaron gives up plaid for a shirt with a story.
Nate and Aaron talk to Jay Stringer. Jay joins the 4 timers club, the current most frequent guest! Jay wrote a new book entitled: Desire: The Longings Inside Us and the New Science of How we Love, Heal, and Grow. Jay’s new book is a road map
498 | High Sensing People (HSP) | Mike Vaughn
On the episode this week: Nate had a no pants meeting and Aaron pimps the new app. Also, you can come to new comer meetings, again.
Nate and Aaron talk to Mike Vaughn. Mike is a counselor and works for Bethesda Workshops. Bethesda is a non profit in Nashville, TN that has intensives for sex, porn, and betrayal trauma. They are also working on a workshops for teens, both online
497 | Sobriety isn’t Healing | Tim Stein
On the episode this week: Nate and Aaron give updates on the new video podcast on YouTube, Instagram, and the new Samson website. Nate and Aaron talk to Tim Stein. Tim is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in sex addiction, partner betrayal, and trauma treatment. Tim is a resident of Santa Rosa, California who is also a recovering sex addict himself. He is als
496 | Better Statistics from Pure Desire | Nick Stumbo
On the episode this week: Nate is reeling and Aaron is back from DFW and thinking about carrying a bat. Aaron also uses his sports expertise to make comparisons between t-ball and recovery discipline. Nate talks about upcoming video podcasts. Nate and Aaron talk to Nick Stumbo. Nick shares Pure Desire’s ongoing move from Oregon to Nashville, paving the way for In-N-Out Burger to
| 495 | Understanding Each Other’s Pain | Reese Crane
This week, Nate and Aaron give tips and tricks for using the new app for local meetings and meetups. Aaron shares his distrust of AI blowing smoke up your @$$. Nate shares the slippery slope of AI affirmation and it compares to the Silas asking real tough questions.
Nate and Aaron talk to returning guest Reese Crane. Reese shares updates on Be Broken 2.0, Gateway to Freedom 1
| 494 | Helping College Men Recover | Jordan Castille
On this episode: Aarons voice sounds a little deeper and more radio like. Wait just a minute, that’s Nate and Ken, not Aaron. Ken talks about the t-shirt that Jesus autographed. This week, Nate and Jordan Castill have a talk. Jordan is from College Station, TX. He is a husband, father and C-SAT counselor with a bunch of additional credentials. Jordan shares how he was first expo
| 493 | Lasting Freedom | Drew Boa
On this episode: Nate and Aaron record the last episode (of 2025). Do you mourn and weep for yourself or others on Christmas? Is this Christmas different? Also, Christmas mafia and underground crimes rings.This week, Nate and Aaron interview returning guest Drew Boa. Drew has written a new book entitled: Outgrow Porn: Find Lasting Freedom Without Fighting an Exhausting Battle—A
492 | Should you do what you love for work | Josh Bales
On this episode: Nate and Aaron are like Johnny Carson and Ed McMahon. Nate looks forward to these. Aaron updates on the app.This week, Nate and Aaron interview Josh Bales. Josh is a Chattanooga, TN native living in Orlando, FL. He is a husband, father, musician, priest, therapist and an ADHDer. There is music and other arts. There is discussion probing “how do you play”? Should you do what y
491 | The Secret to Recovery Success | Troy Snyder
On this episode: Aaron has a tall bed and drinks water at night. Nate appreciates easy night pees. And what is a “pirate pastry”? This week, Nate and Aaron interview Troy Snyder. Troy is an LPC with 25+ years experience, specializing in sex addiction, anger management, men's issues, and also the president of the C-CSAS where he equips the next generation. He shares his story of
490 | Hardwired for Intimacy | Erin Minoz
On this episode: Aaron talks about decimation, how the church kills its own, and the need to have a clear path to restoration. Nate gives examples of grace, healing, and forgiveness. Sharing how grace triumphs over judgement. The NEW Samson App is out (see links below)! This week, Nate and Aaron interview Erin Moniz. Erin is from Waco, TX, a deacon, associate chaplain at Baylor
489 | God’s Empathy for You | Bill and Kristi Gaultiere
On this episode: Aaron makes a sports joke! Nate talks to his first sponsor. They also discuss funny t-shirts, stickers, and Kevin-Kevin! The NEW Samson App is out (see links below)!This week, Nate and Aaron interview Bill and Kristi Gaultiere. Bill is a psychologist and ordained pastor and Kristi is a psychotherapist and both are published authors. They co-found Soul Shepherdin
488 | Loss or Not with Amber Smith | Amber Smith
On this episode: Aaron is not in the mood to be here. Nate feels guilt for his callousness. Both share their struggles with change, loss, and grief. The NEW Samson App is out (see links below)!This week, Nate and Aaron interview Amber Smith. Amber is an unexpected writer/author, speaker, wife, and mom from Texas. She shares on the theology of suffering through her personal exper
487 | Family History Doesn’t Have to be Your Future | Rob Lohman
On this episode: Aaron has free time and is complimented for being calm in the storm. Nate discusses the importance of service in recovery. Also, the NEW Samson App is out (see links below)!This week, Nate and Aaron interview Rob Lohman. Rob is the founder and CEO of Christian Rehab Services, an author, podcaster, and has ADHD. Rob shares his dreams of becoming an addict, coming back to Jesu
486 | Understanding ADHD with Comedian Ron Pearson | Ron Pearson
On this episode: Aaron prepares new flip-flops and shares how he terrified people in the special olympics. Nate was neglected of comedy. They discuss Jesus being a comedian.This week, Nate and Aaron interview Ron Pearson. Ron is a comedian, actor, street performer, and ADHDer. Ron knows how to juggle, really well. He attributes his success to ADHD, connecting two things that don’t seem relate
485 | Shame vs. Hope in Recovery | Steven Shields
On this episode Aaron and Nate discuss recovery quotes and prescribe them for others. This week, Nate and Aaron interview Steven Shields. Steven returns and is moving fast. Steve wanted to talk to Aaron, who starts showering with questions. Therapy lacks culture and is useless. Steve teaches: recover, heal, done, so hopeful! Guidance on how to find a therapist, with a purpose. How to fire you
484 | Resources for Teens, Parents, and You | Noah Filipiak
On this episode: Aaron and Nate reveal that there is a mysterious donor who is matching your Samson Society donations up to $50,000.00!!!!! Also this episode, Aaron is an angry wanker, and gratitude is as real as $!itty stuff. This week, Nate and Aaron interview Noah Filipiak. Noah is an author, pastor, podcaster, and dad. Noah and the guys discuss conversations that need to happen. He guides
483 | Self Forgiveness and Grace | Reese and Wendy Crane
On this episode: Aaron and Justin are at the American Association of Christian Counselors Convention. They are surprised at the volume of men and women asking for info. The topic of prevention and early conversations in dating are also thrown around.This week, Nate and Aaron interview Reese & Wendy Crane. Reese a former minister and now the director of the gateway to freedom weekend. Wend
482 | Masculinity and God | Chris Bruno
On this episode: Nate and Aaron are back from a place that is difficult to pronounce. They give an update on the new website and its local benefits.This week, Nate and Aaron talk to returning guest Chris Bruno. Chris is the 2025 Samson Summit speaker. Discussions include masculine vision, purpose, intention, and design. How avoiding discussing sex and sexuality limits your understanding of Go
481 | Relearning Emotions | Ronald Ovitt
On this episode: Aaron is oppositional to better understand. Nate asks why. This week, Nate and Aaron talk to Ron Ovitt. Ron is an ordained minister, author, podcaster, pastoral counselor, recovery coach, and speaker. Ron specializes in emotional relearning. He wow’s us with this fact: emotions are learned, and they can be relearned! He explains and gives tips on reparenting. A
480 | Building Healthy Practices | Ryan Soave
On this episode: Nate sees in color. Aaron had a Bob Ross birthday party. AND a “shi**y painting prize” is offered! This week, Nate and Aaron talk to Ryan Soave. Ryan is a trauma and mindfulness expert, licensed mental health counselor, speaker, and consultant. He leads others to healing, self-discovery, and personal formation using neuroscience, somatic therapy, and ancient wisdom. Ryan shar
479 | The Gift of Relapse with Nate Larkin
On this episode: Aaron, Nate, Justin, and Alec all hang out. This week, Nate, Aaron, Justin, and Alec interview Nate Larkin, wait, what?!?. Nate Larkin is the host of the Pirate Monk Podcast, yes this very one! He is also an author, speaker, Silas, former pastor, and writes engineering papers and some other stuff. Nate shares more of his story and thoughts on relapse, from experience. They di
478 | What Its Like To Be A Human | Lisa Sharon Harper
On this episode: Aaron is preparing people for unfamiliar conversations with curiosity. And it’s a hot Thursday in August for Nate. This week, Nate and Aaron talk to Lisa Sharon Harper. Lisa is the founder and president of Freedom Road, a consultant group. She is also a theologian, activist, speaker, podcaster, author, college faculty, and trainer. Lisa helps us understand diffe
477 | Kids Are Not Alright | Phillip Wire
Onthis episode: Aaron is formal and calls people. Nate is cool and discusses a stuffed animal fashion show. This week, Nate and Aaron talk to Phillip Wire. Phillip is 2016 teacher of the year, in his district, and an author. He discusses some of the good, and unfortunately, the bad of how schools got “trauma informed.” Three life disruptions, including less sleep, less exercise, and less face-to-f
476 | Friendship for Survival | Mark Greene
On this episode: Aaron wears two pairs of pants and is rude to magicians. Nate rustles up someone. This week, Nate and Aaron talk to Mark Greene. Mark is a Texas native living in Manhattan, NY, who has learned to make friends and is guiding us. He imparts some startling statistics that may motivate you to make friends. Mark shares how he meets guys in the park, modeled after ano
475 | Taming the Molecule of More | Michael Long
On this episode: Nate shares an article about how smart phones keep us addicted to novelty, validation, and stimulation. This week, Nate and Aaron talk to Michael Long. Michael is an author, lecturer, physicist, play/screen/speech writer, and former comedian. He discusses the meaning of and the good and bad of dopamine. He shares how porn, serial dating, and the over usage of te
474 | Real Hope, Not Snake Oil Crap | Steve Shields
On this episode: Nate is still in his car. Aaron sleeps in a Prius and shares that weird is not an emotion.This week, Nate and Aaron talk to Steve Shields . Steve is a hope dealer who also is a counselor, speaker, recovery coach, founder, board member, probably some more cool stuff too. Steve thinks, as a counselor, most of therapy is a waste of time. He shares his story of bein
473 | A Monk and Marine Gives Financial Advice | Doug Lynam
Kevin Addams 6:30 AM
On this episode: Nate sits in a car and attempts to get in touch with his grief. Aaron is home and asks Nate questions.This week, Nate and Aaron talk to Doug Lynam. Doug is a former Marine and Monk, an Enneagram expert, speaker, and coach. Doug shares his story of rebellion that led to becoming a marine for approval from his dad. Then a monk to piss his dad off. And how
472 | Robert Wolgemuth |Finishing Strong with Robert Wolgemuth
On this episode: Nate flies solo while Aaron finishes his epic road trip. Nate performs a wedding and shares his wife, Ali’s health update. This week, Nate and Robert Wolgemuth talk about the end. Robert has written a lot of books, he is also a publisher and business man. He shares that we need to have four pallbearers planned, perhaps not who you think. Robert guides us through things
471 | Jason Mellard | SSAquiz.com
On this episode: Aaron learns where to stick the dynamite on his Prius road trip. Nate takes off the facade.This week, Nate and Aaron talk to our guest, Jason Mellard. Jason is a Texas transplant via South Carolina and Japan. He talks about growing up with sexual and physical abuse from a pastor father. Jason talks about how his father delivered a message that let him know he was not importan
470 | 21 Guys Meet in Canada and Talk Around a Fire
On this episode: Aaron talks about the “sugar cup”. Nate knows a Florida hockey team. This week, our 19 guests are the Canadian Samson Summit attendees, live on the podcast. The importance of “i, me, and my” statements. Questions about supporting women’s addiction, because it’s not just a male problem. Discussing hockey talk, soccer, er, um, football. Supporting individuals “doing it all right”
469 | Troy Haas | Onsite recovery program from sex, drugs, and rock and roll.
On this episode: Nate flies solo and goes to conferences. Aaron visits guys.This week, Nate interviews Troy Haas. Troy is CEO of a less expensive and longer term onsite recovery program from sex, drugs, and rock and roll. Troy talks about hiding his sexual acting out for seven years while on the mission field in Africa. He shares how he was removed from the mission field and sent for recovery
468 | Connecting to People in Pain with Chris Chandler
On this episode: Nate talks about things he sees. Aaron pops over to the waterpark.This week, Nate and Aaron interview Chris Chandler. Chris is a Christian therapist in San Diego who brings surfer Jesus to his clients. He shares his story of getting expelled from school, DUI’s, and one-night-stands that led to his deconstruction of faith and eventual healing. Chris hosts male and female thera
467 | Gail Stucker | Overcoming Purity Culture Shame
On this episode: Nate Luau’s at Presbyterian Church. Aaron withholds his “arr,” he wants it so bean something. This week, Nate and Aaron interview Gail Stucker. Gail is an Allender Center trained story work coach working with individuals, couples, and groups. She shares her story of finding Jesus in para-church ministries. Gail shares her experiences of “purity culture” not being firewo
466 | Molly LaCroix | I.F.S. Internal Family Systems
On this episode: A new Samson website updates and an opportunity for IT volunteers. Nate takes his ear muffs off. Aaron shares what makes Jesus like you more. This week, Nate and Aaron interview Molly LaCroix. Molly is a therapist and author from Bend, Oregon. She helps Nate, and Aaron apply the principles of I.F.S (internal family systems) to the lives of Samson and David (from the Bible). D
465 | Ian Cron | Light Hearted Approach to Recovery
On this episode: Nate gets cheap airline tickets. Aaron navigates and revisits what it’s like to be under pressure. This week, Nate and Aaron interview Ian Cron. Ian has a new book out called: The Fix, looking at the light hearted transformation that the 12-steps have. Ian shares how he unconsciously audited the 12-steps in 1987. He shares how his spiritual misadventures were an invitation fr
464 | Dr. Eddie Capparucci | Help for the Betrayed
On this episode: Nate reads and Aaron asks questions. This week, Nate and Aaron interview returning guest Dr Eddie Capparucci. Eddie has authored a new book to help betrayed partners who feel stuck and like they aren’t finding freedom. He reminds us that we can’t go deep without help from others. Eddie gives hope that we don’t have to have future relationships that are repeats f
463 | Alec Gibson | Ongoing recovery
Title: Ongoing Recovery w/ Alec Gibson On this episode: Aaron is thinking and collects quote books. Nate discusses the roles of dads and friends.This week, Nate and Aaron interview fellow Pirate Monk, Alec Gibson. Alec shares his story of how he was cured in 4-6 months, just like everyone else. He talks about the importance of ongoing recovery, continuing to attend summits and i
462 | Michael John Cusick | A new book, Sacred Attachment.
On this episode: Nate met God in bigger, better, closer ways in 12-step. Aaron chose the correct 1 of 33,000 options.This week, Nate and Aaron interview returning guest Michael John Cusick. Michael is back with a new book, Sacred Attachment. In his new book he discusses attachment styles, spiritual exhaustion, and how to understand and continue on the journey of transforming, growth, and chan
461 | Lorne Williams | Friday Morning Studs
On this episode: Aaron moves to the dam lake. Nate recommends bbq. Also this week, Nate and Aaron talk to Lorne Williams. Lorne is a middle child who lives in the bigger city of Appleton, WS. He hosts the Friday Morning Studs Samson Society meeting. He shares how his epileptic mom died when he was a kid, his dad was an alcoholic, and his sibling who had developmental disabilities, led to wher
460 | Meredith Phipps | Healing Trauma with Yoga
On this episode: Aaron talks about his socks. Erin explains that rubber wears. Nate hasn’t returned from the bathroom.This week, Nate, Aaron, and Erin talk to Meredith Phipps. Meredith is a trauma informed certified yoga instructor. She shares her journey of how she numbed the pain with infidelity as she discovered self-care and healing in exercise and yoga. Investigating that the pose you do
459 | Storm Myer | "Looking for Comfort in What You Know”
On this episode: Aaron and Nate return from Florida separately. Aaron asks if girls or guys are better.Also, Updates on the walking retreat for 2025 as well as many other retreats. Sign-up now!This week, Nate and Aaron have a discussion with our very own pirate monk: Storm Myers. Storm isn’t an author or pedaling his wares. He’s a guy with a story inviting others to join with him to sha
458 | Mike Novotny | Confess First, for Safety
On this episode: Aaron is in Texas or Mississippi, maybe, networking. Nate is solo and talks about “the great unplugging”. This week, Nate interviews Mike Novotny. Mike is an author, pastor, husband, and father. Mike serves from Appleton, WI, one of the top ten drunkest towns in the United States, where he is known for having sermon series’s that discuss the difficult things. To
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